Candy
Calgary,#2Consumer Suggestion
Sat, May 26, 2007
You probably wont want to hear this but.... in the automotive industry ( as with a lot of other businesses) you really do get what you pay for. I dont work for Canadian tire, but I do work at a full service mechanical shop, and I can tell you that, when it comes to your vehicle, do not go for the "cheap" fix. Canadian Tire, wal Mart, Miniute Lube, Mr Lube, all these places are what we would call a "cheap fix". They get you in and get you out as fast as they can, and quality suffers greatly when you rush any mechanical job. Be it a simple oil change or a whole engine overhaul, you want the right people doing a good job. And the sad fact of it all is, most of the people that work in the "cheap fix" type place, dont have the training or certificates to do the work they are doing.Hell, some of these kids dont even drive themselves. Always take your vehicle to a fully certified shop. ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS talk to the service writer (guy behind the counter) about the service BEFORE they bring your vehicle in the shop. ASK QUESTIONS! Even if you think they are stupid questions, ASK ANYWAY! You have every right in the world to fully understand the service needed before you hand over that visa card, or your keys for that matter. Always research the company before you choose. Believe me when I tell you, there is NO shortage of GOOD automotive shops in Calgary. I work at one of the best. Be willing to spend a little more money. Automotive parts are not cheap. Depending on the year, make and model of your vehicle parts can range anywhere from pocket change to thousands of dollars, which brings me to my last point. Regular Service!!!! Always have your vehicle summer or winterized. When we perform these services we do a inspection of the entire vehicle, from tires to brakes, to fluid levels to checking all your lights and so on. Regular service will keep your car running good all year round, which will eliminate down time and nasty 'surprise' fixes. So, with all that being said, stay away from the cheepies and give your car some love, it will love you back for years to come.